Club News

Pitching in with the Foundation

First group of pledgers awarded commemorative virtual plot of Tynecastle turf.

The Foundation of Hearts was delighted to welcome its first group of pledgers to the inaugural commemorative pitch plot ceremony at Tynecastle.

Some 50 committed supporters were awarded their own unique virtual plot of the hallowed turf, including a certificate of ownership, after being among the first pledgers to reach the 1,000 points milestone as part of the Foundation's Fan Rewards scheme.

Hearts chair Ann Budge and members of Hearts playing and coaching staff, including head coach Robbie Neilson and director of football Craig Levein, were on hand to help to present the plot certificates yesterday and convey their appreciation for the pledgers' unstinting support.

The new plotholders were also able to step on to the pitch to visit their plots.

Foundation of Hearts chair Ian Murray said: "The backing of the pledgers has been pivotal in helping the club to begin the recovery process in the past year and it is great that we are able to recognise their truly remarkable support through the awarding of these commemorative plots on the Tynecastle pitch.

"However, the Foundation of Hearts cannot rest on its laurels and I would therefore ask all supporters to take this simple message to your fellow-fans who have not yet signed up to this vital cause on behalf of the club we love: we have achieved so much through the financial backing of 8,000 members but how much more can the club achieve in the Premiership with an even bigger membership delivering more financial resources?

"It is never too late to become a pledger and join the biggest fans' movement in Scottish footballing history.

"The Foundation has played a vital role in this season's Championship title success but this is only the beginning. What does the future hold? You decide."

The Foundation of Hearts plans to host more plot ceremonies in coming months as the number of pledgers reaching the 1,000 points target rises. Pledgers who reached 180 points by the 28 February cut-off date target will also have their names stitched into a third official club strip for next season.